Duckweed
Lemna minor
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
0.1"–0.5" H × 1"–4" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Duckweed is a tiny floating aquatic plant that forms dense mats on the surface of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving water. Each plant consists of a small oval leaf pad about the size of a fingernail. It reproduces rapidly and can quickly cover entire water surfaces.
In an HOA neighborhood
Duckweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Aquatic plant only suitable for water features
- Can become invasive and cover entire pond surfaces
- Not appropriate for typical residential landscaping
Wildlife value
Duckweed provides food for waterfowl, fish, and aquatic insects. It also offers shelter for small aquatic creatures and helps oxygenate water bodies.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Duckweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.